10 best long-distance moving companies in Belton, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in several ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Picking the right moving professionals can help relieve your concerns. We've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Belton so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to consider. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Belton

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your move. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Belton.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Belton several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what previous clients say about certain long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to book a moving company. Belton also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your moving company far enough in advance is critical when preparing for a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, find your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest starting a month ahead of time. You might prefer to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the things that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Texas DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toiletries.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but gives you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

Texas Department of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration